Solar Technician Schools in New Mexico

The following guide doesn’t just explore how to become a solar technician in New Mexico; it dives into how candidates can do so properly. By the time they are done reading, candidates will understand how to be properly positioned for rapid career advancement and opportunities.

The guide introduces students to the steps they will need to take while preparing for training and employment. It then covers possible training avenues and highlights the benefits of each.

We also show readers specific programs to consider, along with their highlights. Finally, a section is dedicated to highlighting the licensing and certification requirements for solar technicians in New Mexico.

How to Become a Solar Technician in New Mexico

The following steps are needed to get started as a solar technician in New Mexico.

Basic Requirements

The basic requirements to become a solar technician in New Mexico include a high school diploma or GED, communication skills, teamwork, and physical fitness.

Foundational classes in mathematics, physics, and vocational studies can also be beneficial.

Academic Training

Academic training is suitable for prospective solar technicians in New Mexico who would like to earn a certificate or an associate’s degree. Employers may value those with these credentials higher than candidates without them.

Later in the guide, we explore some of the top academic institutions in New Mexico with comprehensive solar technician programs.

Apprenticeship Training

After academic training, candidates may want to gain some job experience before securing employment. To do so, they may complete an apprenticeship training program.

Apprenticeship programs are very comprehensive, with both classroom and practical learning opportunities. This means that candidates may entirely skip academic training and instead commit fully to an apprenticeship.

Employment

Once training and experience are complete, individuals can begin applying for roles such as Solar Installer, PV Technician, Renewable Energy Technician, and Solar Maintenance Specialist.

Common employers include solar contracting companies, green energy startups, utility providers, and electrical service firms.

Career Growth & Business Opportunities

Continuing education and certification can facilitate career growth as a solar technician. These help candidates improve their credibility, expertise, and possible annual average salaries.

Some may also choose to register as independent contractors or start their own solar installation business, provided they meet local licensing and insurance requirements.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become an electrician in New Mexico

Licensure & Certification Requirements

In New Mexico, a state license as a solar technician is compulsory. In fact, the state is recognized as one of the strictest regarding solar technician licensing.

Professionals in this field are expected to have a GB-98 general building or EE-98J electrical license when working on solar projects. Most professionals choose the EE-98J license.

Those who have not yet obtained a license can still participate, but they must work under a licensed contractor specifically for solar installations. Candidates may receive a license from the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department.

Certification is not compulsory for solar technicians in New Mexico, but it is popular for the career opportunities it provides. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) issues prominent certifications for candidates in the field.

Top Solar Technician Schools in New Mexico

The schools below offer comprehensive solar technician training for candidates in New Mexico.

Explore solar technician schools in New Mexico by city:

• Solar technician schools in Albuquerque

Salary & Career Outlook

According to Indeed, solar technicians in New Mexico generally earn an average annual salary of about $59,002, which aligns with the median wage level for professionals in this field across the state.

Of course, salaries can range significantly. Those who have built up more experience and credentials can find themselves among the top earners, bringing in up to $75,736 per year. On the other hand, those newer to the industry may start off earning closer to $46,413 annually, placing them in the lowest 10% income range.

Several variables contribute to these differences, including location, years on the job, and the operational strategies of the companies they work for. At present, some of the best-paying cities in New Mexico are Carlsbad, with an annual average salary of $157,747; Rio Rancho, with an annual average salary of $154,446; and Deming, NM, with an annual average salary of $65,799.